Palmetto Trail Nonprofit Administrative Intern

Job Title: Nonprofit Administrative Intern

Department: Administration

Reports to: Administrative Assistant

Location: On-site at 722 King St., Columbia, SC 29205

Employment Type: Part-Time Internship (10-15 hours a week)

Hourly Rate: $17.50

Organization Overview

The Palmetto Trail provides free and public access to 416 miles of trail, South Carolina’s only cross-state trail. When fully complete, it will stretch approximately 500 miles from the mountains of Oconee County to the Intracoastal Waterway in Charleston County. Our mission is to foster an appreciation for South Carolina’s natural and cultural resources, providing opportunities for active recreation that can be enjoyed by all regardless of gender, race, creed, age, or ability.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Nonprofit Administrative Intern to join our team. In this role, you will assist in organizing, updating, and maintaining critical information within our digital databases. You will gain hands-on experience in nonprofit operations, donor relations management, and data integrity while directly supporting the programs that further our mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Database Management: Accurately input, update, and manage constituent, donor, and volunteer records in our database (e.g., Little Green Light).
• Data Verification & Cleanup: Cross-check information from source documents against digital records to ensure accuracy, and assist in routine data cleansing (e.g., removing duplicates).
• Gift & Record Processing: Assist in processing donation forms and ensuring accurate recording of financial and in-kind contributions.
• Administrative Support: Assist staff with scanning, filing, and organizing physical and digital paperwork.
• Market Research: Collect and analyze data about donors, volunteers, community needs, and public perception to guide strategy and fundraising.
• Grant Research: Identify government, foundation, and corporate funding sources whose missions align with your organization’s programs.
• Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality and privacy standards regarding sensitive donor records and personnel files.

Qualifications

• Education: Currently enrolled in a college or university degree program, or a recent graduate.
•  Computer Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) or Google Workspace for document creation and spreadsheets.
•  Attention to Detail: Meticulous eye for detail and a proven ability to self-monitor for mistakes.
• Organization: Strong time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Communication: Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Values Alignment: A strong passion for the mission of Palmetto Trail and an understanding of or willingness to learn about our community.

What We Offer

• Hands-on Experience: Practical exposure to nonprofit management, fundraising, and database administration.
• Mentorship: Direct supervision and feedback from experienced nonprofit professionals.
• Skill Building: Training on data management best practices.
• Flexibility: A flexible schedule designed to accommodate university coursework.